Our wishes for Childbirth - Monica
Due Date: 05/27/2009
Patient of Dr. Rebecca B****
Scheduled to deliver at ***************
4/23/2009
To whom it may concern:
We have a few requests regarding the birth of our daughter. While we realize that births often don't go as planned, we would appreciate your support in helping us obtain the requests we can achieve.
Sincerely,Monica
LABOR
I would like to be free to walk around during labor.
I wish to be able to move around and change position at will throughout labor.
I would like to be able to have fluids by mouth throughout the first stage of labor.
I would prefer to keep the number of vaginal exams to a minimum.
I would like to wear contact lenses or glasses at all times when conscious.
MONITORING
I do not wish to have continuous fetal monitoring unless it is required by the condition of the baby.
I do not want an internal monitor unless the baby has shown some sign of distress.
LABOR AUGMENTATION/INDUCTION
I do not wish to have the amniotic membrane ruptured artificially unless signs of fetal distress require internal monitoring.
If labor is not progressing, I would like to have the amniotic membrane ruptured before other methods are used to augment labor.
I would prefer to be allowed to try changing position and other natural methods (walking, nipple stimulation) before pitocin is administered.
ANESTHESIA/PAIN MEDICATION
I realize that many pain medications exist I'll ask for them if I need them.
CESAREAN
Unless absolutely necessary, I would like to avoid a Cesarean.
If a Cesarean delivery is indicated, I would like to be fully informed and to participate in the decision-making process.
I would like Mark present at all times if the baby requires a Cesarean delivery.
I wish to have an epidural for anesthesia.
So I can view the birth, I would like the screen lowered just before delivery of the baby.
If the baby is not in distress, the baby should be given to Mark immediately after birth.
EPISIOTOMY
I would prefer not to have an episiotomy unless absolutely required for the baby's safety.
I would appreciate guidance in when to push and when to stop pushing so the perineum can stretch.
If possible, I would like to use perineal massage to help avoid the need for an episiotomy.
I would like a local anesthetic to repair a tear.
DELIVERY
I would like to be allowed to choose the position in which I give birth, including squatting.
I would like Julie and/or nurses to support me and my legs as necessary during the pushing stage.
I would like to try to deliver in a squatting position, using Mark or a squatting bar for support.
I would like a mirror available so I can see the baby's head when it crowns.
I would like the chance to touch the baby's head when it crowns.
Even if I am fully dilated, and assuming the baby is not in distress, I would like to try to wait until I feel the urge to push before beginning the pushing phase.
I would like to have the baby placed on my stomach/chest immediately after delivery.
IMMEDIATELY AFTER DELIVERY
I would like to have Mark cut the cord.
I would prefer that the umbilical cord stop pulsating before it is cut.
I would like to hold the baby while I deliver the placenta and any tissue repairs are made.
I would like to hold the baby for at least fifteen minutes before (he/she) is photographed, examined, etc.
I would like to have the baby evaluated and bathed in my presence.
I plan to keep the baby near me following birth and would appreciate if the evaluation of the baby can be done with the baby on my abdomen, with both of us covered by a warm blanket, unless there is an unusual situation.
If the baby must be taken from me to receive medical treatment, Mark will accompany the baby at all times.
I would prefer to hold the baby rather than have her placed under heat lamps.
I would like to delay the eye medication for the baby until a couple hours after birth.
I would like to see the placenta after it is delivered.
I would like to avoid being catheterized if at all possible.
I would like to hold off on the hepatitis shot until the baby is a few weeks old.
POSTPARTUM
I would like a private room, if available.
Unless required for health reasons, I do not wish to be separated from my baby.
I would like to have the baby "room in" and be with me at all times.
BREASTFEEDING
I plan to breastfeed the baby and would like to begin nursing very shortly after birth.
Unless medically necessary, I do not wish to have any bottles given to the baby (including glucose water or plain water).
I do not want the baby to be given a pacifier.
I would like to meet with a Lactation Consultant.
PHOTO/VIDEO
I would like to take still photographs during labor and the birth.
I would like to make a videorecording of labor and/or the birth.
3 comments:
That is quite the list! Looks like you have really done your research. I hope things end up going just as you want. Just remember, there is no shame in pain medication. My good friend went into labor wanting to do things naturally... a few hours in she changed her mind! Then she felt really bad. The bottom line is that the baby gets here healthy :) GOOD LUCK!
PS- Mark is quite the trooper! Jared hates all things medical; if we ever have kids he'll probablly have to be blind folded and medicated. :)
I was not allowed to videotape Eliana's birth. I am guessing the rule was in place for avoiding documentation for lawsuits. :P bastards! :)
Did you get these from the internet? I got mine and it was almost identical word for word. LOL.
Wow, this is very in depth! I would never have thought up of all of those things in a million years. I can't wait to see pictures of her when she is here!
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